How is the thread-dragging (seton) procedure for anal fistula performed?
Disease description:
Recently, I’ve been feeling unwell, and after a hospital examination, I was diagnosed with an anal fistula requiring surgery. How is the seton placement procedure for anal fistula performed?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhou Xinjun
Fistulotomy with seton placement begins with anesthesia. After disinfecting the anal area, a probe fitted with a rubber band is inserted through the anal opening into the fistula tract. Under anoscopy, the internal opening of the fistula is visualized, and the probe is then pulled out through the anus. During this traction, the probe traverses the entire fistula tract. Subsequently, the rubber band is tightened and tied around both ends to ligate the tract, followed by excision for treatment. It is strongly recommended to undergo this procedure at a reputable hospital.
